Investigations
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investigators. You know. The guys who have taken the five day course and are now considered
"certified". Dakota Labs will provide you with Ph.D. Scientists that are highly trained in
microbiology and well versed in building science.
investigating the causes and cures of mold and bacterial
contaminations in both commercial and residential settings.
The staff and scientists at Dakota Labs will guide you through
the mine field that is the process of curing a microbiological
contamination problem. Whether your needs are small or
large we will be by your side!
Mold
Fungi (mold) is found everywhere. They are an important part of the eco-
system because they decompose plant material and recycle the nutrients.
There are thousands of species of mold, yet only about 100 of them are
pathogenic to humans and animals. Nearly all types of mold can elicit an
allergenic reaction in a person who's sensitivity is heightened to their pre-
sence. When mold spores are at high concentrations in an indoor
environment those individuals which will likely feel the effects first are the
elderly, the very young and those individuals that are immune system
compromised. When airborne mold spores are present in large numbers, they can cause
allergic reactions, asthma episodes, infections and respiratory problems for people. Exposure
to high spore levels can also lead to the development of an allergy to the mold. Mold spores are
not the only colony components which must be considered when exploring the health risks
associated with colony growth. Certain mold species produce mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can
cause adverse health effects such as headaches, muscle problems, and respiratory distress.
Beyond the health effects listed above high levels of mold growth within a building can also
cause severe structural damage.
For mold to grow, it needs a food source (wood, paper, leaves, dirt), the
proper temperature and a source of moisture. Unfortunately, the materials
most widely used in the construction of our buildings are a source of food
for the typical environmental mold. In addition, the temperature at which
we keep our indoor environment is prime for mold growth. Therefore, the
control of mold growth in most cases is an exercise in moisture control.
The following is a short list of possible sources of indoor moisture that
may cause problems:
-Flooding
-Backed-up sewers
-Leaking roofs
-Humidifiers
-Damp basements or crawl spaces
-Constant plumbing leaks
Bacteria
Bacteria are the most abundant of all organisms. They are found in nearly all locations in soil,
water, and air. Some bacteria are known to form intimate relationships other organisms.
Bacteria can be both harmful and useful to the environment, and animals, including humans.
The role of bacteria in disease and infection is important. Some bacteria act as pathogens and
cause disease. Some bacterial infections can spread throughout the host's body and become
systemic. The mode of infection includes contact, air, food, water, and insect-borne
microorganisms.
Dakota Laboratories specializes in the detection of these environmental issues confronting
property owners and the Insurance Industry. Our service area includes New England and the
adjoining states.
Our Mold and Bacterial Investigations Include:
-A full sensory inspection of each space within the structure
-An inspection of the HVAC system as a possible mold/moisture source
-An indoor environmental characterization (temperature, relative humidity, etc.) of each space
within the structure. The environmental data will assist in pinpointing any potential moisture
source.
-The use of moisture meters and boroscopes for detection of moisture in building materials and
the detection of mold growth within walls.
-Sample collection using cutting edge techniques;
-Air Sampling (viable and nonviable)
-Surface Sampling (swab and lift tape)
-Bulk Sampling
-A comprehensive report (see below)
-A post remediation investigation to determine the effectiveness of remediation activities
Our Mold and Bacterial Investigation Reports include:
-Background materials which explain the possible hazards of exposure to elevated levels of
mold and/or bacteria.
-An explanation of the points of interest/concern within each space of the inspection site (i.e.
where water stains, mold growth, etc. are located). Pictures are included!
-An explanation of the sampling times, types (surface or air) and sites in addition to the materials
and methods used.
-Results, including data tables
-Conclusions as to the possible source(s) of mold, bacteria and moisture.
-Recommendations for alleviation of your mold/bacteria/moisture problem.
-A list of characteristics of each family of mold found within the inspection site.
Results within 5 Business Days!!
All Investigations Conducted and/or Reviewed by a Ph.D. Scientist.
These Limited Airborne and Latent Fungal Investigations include a visual inspection and testing
of random interior surfaces and ambient air for possible fungal contamination. Outside ambient
air samples are collected for comparison. The tape lift and swab samples are taken to
determine the type/viability of fungi. Ambient air samples are taken to identify the presence and
concentration of fungal organisms in the indoor/outdoor environment. Generally speaking, the
distribution of spore types should be similar in both the indoor and outdoor samples. Indoor
concentrations should be lower than outdoor concentrations, and non-complaint area levels
should be lower than complaint areas.
Currently there are no established guidelines that define “safe” or “unsafe” fungal levels. OSHA,
New York City, and California have published guidelines for detection and remediation of indoor
mold contamination. None of the guidelines are enforceable by law at this time.
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